A public declaration of policy and aims especially one issued before an election by a political party or candidate is commonly called

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the term used for a public declaration of policies and aims, especially one issued by a political party or candidate before an election.

Step 2: Explain the concept In Government (Civics), a manifesto is a written document in which a political party or candidate publicly states what they stand for, what they plan to do if elected, and how they intend to run the government. Parties in Nigeria, such as the APC, PDP and Labour Party, publish manifestos during election campaigns so voters can compare their promises and decide whom to support.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Steps to govern: Not a recognised political term.
• B. Policy paper: This is a detailed document on a specific policy issue, often prepared by government or experts. It is not a campaign declaration issued before an election.
• C. Guide to government: Not a standard term for this.
• D. Manifesto: This is the public declaration of a party's or candidate's policies and aims, issued before an election. ✔

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. manifesto.

Exam tip: Remember "Manifesto = Manifest (make clear) the plans." A manifesto makes the party's plans clear to the public before voting. Related terms often tested include party platform, campaign, and constitution (a party's rules, which differ from its manifesto).